Today, the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee held a full committee hearing on “The Future of the Internet.” In response, the Hands Off the Internet coalition issued the following statement:

“Chairman Martin’s testimony restored a healthy dose of reality to the debate over network management on the Internet. Today’s new ‘smart network’ technology is one of the best ways to improve Net users’ online experience, including faster and more affordable access while reducing online dangers.

“No question, consumers deserve safeguards to access legal websites and other information. But it’s often overlooked that they already have this protection and as the Chairman’s testimony shows, markets, public opinion, and FCC oversight are working to protect the consumer without the unintended consequences of a massive new regulatory scheme.”

The Hands Off the Internet coalition is a Washington, DC-based coalition of companies and nonprofit organizations that believes the Internet has flourished because government has not tried to regulate it. Members include Alcatel-Lucent, AT&T, Qwest, 3M, the National Association of Manufacturers, FiberControl, and Cinergy Communications. Nonprofit members include Citizens Against Government Waste and the National Black Chamber of Commerce.